Laura off to Rio for second Olympics

Olympic athlete Laura Weightman and Team GB legend Darren Campbell at the Nissan Olympic-themed games at Newbottle Primary Academy.

Published:09:00Thursday 28 July 2016

With just over a week until the start of the Olympic Games in Rio, Alnwick’s Laura Weightman is now in her final preparations.

Saying the words ‘I am going to Rio, my second Olympic Games’ is an incredible feeling,” she said.

“The dream I had since I was a little girl starting athletics at the age of 12 was to go to the Olympic Games, so to have achieved that now, not once but twice, is really special.

“The past four years since London 2012 have flown by, it’s been an up and down journey, certainly not all going as planned, but I feel proud that I can represent Team GB again.”

Weightman will run in the1500m in Rio but adds: “There is still some work to be done to make sure I am on the start line in the best shape I possibly can be.

“I was back up at altitude in the French Pyrenees in Font Romeu doing my final preparations. It was good to be away on a training camp. The days were simple, eat sleep and train. There was plenty of time to relax and recover and no distractions of home life.

“I am excited and nervous at the same time, but I can’t wait to get out there put my spikes on and race!

“Mum is getting into full Olympic spirit too. She has a giant flag wishing me luck hanging from my house in Northumberland so there’s no missing that! I’m really grateful for all the support I get and I hope I can do them proud.”

Benfield Nissan are proud to support Laura on her road to the Rio 2016. To find out more about Nissan’s partnership with Team GB, visit nissan.co.uk/uniteandexcite